John E. Martin

Sheriff Martin and a citizen were shot to death after being ambushed while returning to Rio Grande City after serving citations. The two had been collecting taxes and were murdered in a robbery of the tax proceeds.

Sheriff Martin had served as sheriff for a total of 3.5 years over two different terms. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

Bio

Age46

Tour3 years, 6 months

BadgeNot available

Incident Details

CauseGunfire

WeaponGun; Unknown type

OffenderNot available

Most Recent Reflection

I just found out that Sheriff Martin is my GGG grandfather. His surviving son was William D Martin SR who married Liciana Martin and had 7 children in Starr County Texas. My grandpa was William D Martin JR. My father is Richard L Martin and his brother is William D Martin III. I am deeply moved and proud about this information.